13 things you didn't know about the Canadian flag

Happy Flag Day! Today, the Canadian flag officially turns 53-years-old. From hockey jerseys to flying high on flag poles across the country, the Canadian flag unites us and the lone red maple leaf is a symbol of our national pride.

“On this day 53 years ago, the National Flag of Canada was raised for the first time over Parliament Hill, in communities across the country, and in Canadian diplomatic and consular missions around the world,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a statement. “A single red maple leaf has come to represent the values we hold dear as a society – freedom, generosity, openness, and respect – and the promise of an entire country.”

“This year, as National Flag of Canada Day falls during the 2018 Winter Olympics, I invite Canadians to cheer on our Olympic and Paralympic athletes and honour the Maple Leaf that brings us all together.”

The Prime Minister added that the Maple Leaf is a source of pride. But Coming up with that maple leaf design was not an easy feat. So, we thought it would be a fun to take you back to high school history class and go over some surprising facts about the Canadian flag and how it came to be the red maple leaf we all love.